Dolly Parton has collaborated with an impressive lineup of artists, including Miley Cyrus, Lainey Wilson, Queen Latifah, and Reba McEntire, to release a new version of her classic song “Light of a Clear Blue Morning.” This updated rendition debuted on January 16 and carries a special purpose: all proceeds will support pediatric cancer research at the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville.
Parton, who is set to celebrate her 80th birthday, expressed her joy in reviving the song that she originally penned during a challenging time in her life. “I wrote ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning’ during a season when I was searching for hope, and 50 years later that message still feels just as true,” she shared in a statement. The country music legend emphasized the importance of sharing the song’s hopeful message with such remarkable women on this new track.
The original “Light of a Clear Blue Morning” was featured on Parton’s 1977 album New Harvest…First Gathering and made a notable impact, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. In addition to its historical significance, the song has a personal connection with Cyrus, who honored Parton by covering the track on a 2021 Mother’s Day episode of Saturday Night Live. Cyrus and Parton’s musical collaborations have included several highlights, showcasing their enduring friendship and artistic synergy.
Beyond this collaboration, the song marks a continued partnership between McEntire and Wilson, who previously teamed up on “Trailblazer” alongside Miranda Lambert, which is nominated for the upcoming 2026 Grammy Awards. Additionally, Parton and Latifah have a shared history, having worked together on the 2012 film Joyful Noise.
Dolly Parton, a long-time benefactor of the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, recently addressed her health situation, confirming that she is undergoing some treatments but reassuring fans that it is nothing serious. “I wanted you to know that I’m not dying,” she affirmed after postponing her Las Vegas residency last September.
As Parton approaches her milestone birthday on January 19, this release not only revisits a beloved song but also highlights the power of music to foster hope and contribute to meaningful causes.